Today is October's contribution to Alex Cavanaugh's Insecure Writers Support Group.
Why am I an Insecure Writer this month?
Because in two days I’ll be attending my first writing workshop.
To be honest, I’m not sure what to expect. It’s not a big writer’s conference, so there won’t be any mingling around a convention center. It’s a two day course, given by David Garland, author of many fantasy books. All I have to do is show up with a notebook and pen.
This will be my first foray out into the world of writing, and in many ways it feels like I’m taking a leap of faith off a cliff in the dark. Hopefully I’ll return with lots of great ideas and some good stories to share with you.
What was your first writing related meeting/conference/workshop and how did it go for you? Any tips for me?
Hi Ken! "Off a cliff in the dark!" That's exactly how I felt when I first said I was a writer on my relatively new blog and joined the IWSG. As an elementary teach I attended SO many literacy meetings, conferences, and workshops ~ but I've never had the pleasure of going to one for me. Just ENJOY, and let us all know how it goes. I'm fascinated to know that you have a Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry. I had to take Chem 100 three times to get a B. Although I was terrible at chemistry, I loved its concepts and how fundamental the subject is to our understanding of the universe and life.
ReplyDeleteI've not been to one, but everyone raves about them. Go with an open mind and learn!
ReplyDeleteI've never been to one, but as Alex says, everyone loves them. I'm sure you'll have a great time - and be sure to tell us about it ;)
ReplyDeleteI've been to a few writers conferences. Be sure to take a pen and notebook. Also, if you have Internet access and Twitter, it's good to tweet tidbits you find useful. They almost always go better than you think they will, and you can meet some new writer friends at them. And it's much easier to be a participant at a workshop than have to give the workshop.
ReplyDeleteOh you're going to have fun. I remember my first conference--so amazing. I came away totally rejuvenated. Let us know how it goes.
ReplyDeleteI've been to one very small conference, and I was intimidated by all the writer's. I felt so insecure I wanted to huddle in a corner. I've thought about taking a writing course, good for you. I hope it goes well!!!
ReplyDeleteGood luck! I've attended writing seminars, but those are just sit and listen deals. I'd be nervous for a workshop too. I can't wait to hear about it!
ReplyDeleteGo, Ken, go!! I'm so glad you're taking this opportunity for yourself. Not only will you probably learn a lot, but you'll meet some cool, like-minded people in the flesh, not just out here on the interwebs.
ReplyDeleteWith the workshop, don't let yourself get overwhelmed with information. Take what works for you at this moment. Not everything will. And the speaker's way isn't the only way to do things. Use what you can, discard the rest.
Good luck and have fun!
Awesome. Ava's got some great advice. I did a publishing workshop about two years ago, and it was immensely helpful. I haven't been back out since then, but we'll blame it on moving and home schooling. I'm with everyone else. Absorb, enjoy.
ReplyDeleteOh, I think you'll enjoy it. I always come back inspired after attending a conference and all the writing workshops. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI am sure you will have a fantastic time, learn a lot, and make some new friends! I have never been to a writing conference, although now that I'm retired from teaching and have the time, I really want to!
ReplyDeleteI will be attending two conferences this month -- my first ever -- but they are librarian conferences and I am a speaker. I am nervous about that.
I was totally terrified of my first workshop, but I didn't need to be. It was inspiring, helpful, and fun. I learned a ton. I felt reinvigorated about writing. I was so happy I'd gone. I hope it's the same for you :)
ReplyDeleteI was much like you. I didn't know what to expect. But it didn't matter that it was my first conference or that I didn't know anyone there. Everyone was welcoming and friendly. And when it was over, I was excited to apply the tips and knowledge I gained to my writing. I hope your experience is the same.
ReplyDelete*Whispers* I've never been to one! Don't tell will you? It's not that I don't want to, I just haven't had the opportunity yet. Hope you enjoy it, come back and let us know how it went.
ReplyDeleteI'm excited for you. I came back from my first writing conference inspired and excited to work on my own stuff. I hope you report back to us all the awesome things you learn. Relax, take notes, make contacts and have fun. Exchange social media links with other writers. There will be so much to do.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to hear all about it. :-)
ReplyDeleteAnna from Shout with Emaginette
Relax, smile, and take notes. And then during the wine tasting event in the evening, if they have one, mingle. You'll have fun.
ReplyDelete--best
joylene (cluculzwriter)
Tips: ask questions, listen to what everyone has to say and remember only the bits that you want to. And enjoy yourself :-)
ReplyDeleteHave fun! I love workshops and learning. Remember not everthing said is 'law'. There are no hard and fast facts in this business. Everyone else there is an awkward writer. Just have fun and you all have writing in common to talk about.
ReplyDeleteMy only tip is to enjoy yourself. You'll learn heaps and you'll be hugely inspired to write.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you'll have a great time. Just being around a bunch of other writers will recharge your creative engine.
ReplyDeleteYour first writing workshop! So cool! I know you'll have a great time and learn a lot!
ReplyDeleteCongrats, sounds like a lot of fun. My only experience with such have been online, but I did enjoy those too.
ReplyDeleteJuneta at Writer's Gambit
I hope you had a wonderful time! Looking forward to reading about your experience. :)
ReplyDelete